Cambridge Biology Summer School for Ages 16–18 | Best Parents
International relations class
University of Oxford Campus, UK

Exceptional Summer Pre-College Biology Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

age icon 16-18 years old

time icon 2 weeks

book icon Weekly hours: 20

See Dates

Session Dates

Choose your preferred session from the options below and submit your details in order to complete your booking.

July - Day

Start 7/5/2026
End 7/18/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £5,995

July - Boarding

Start 7/5/2026
End 7/18/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £7,495

July - Day

Start 7/19/2026
End 8/1/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £5,995

July - Boarding

Start 7/19/2026
End 8/1/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £7,495

August - Day

Start 8/2/2026
End 8/15/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £5,995

August - Boarding

Start 8/2/2026
End 8/15/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £7,495

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Biology Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

Biological Sciences – University of Oxford | Ages 16–18

Program Overview

🔬 Explore the fascinating world of biological sciences in Oxford, a city at the forefront of scientific discovery.

This program, designed for students aged 16–18, offers an in-depth study of genetics, ecology, human biology, and the future of bioinformatics.

Working with experienced tutors from Oxford and Cambridge, you’ll sharpen your scientific knowledge, research skills, and critical thinking while gaining confidence in presenting your findings.

***

Campus & Teaching

📚 Small group classes (average 7, max 12) ensure personalized attention.

👩‍🏫 Tutors are expert academics from Oxford, Cambridge, and top universities worldwide.

🧑‍🎓 A mentor program provides full support throughout your stay.

📑 Every participant receives a detailed tutor report and certificate at graduation.

***

Sample Modules

Module 1: Macromolecules of Life

  • Study proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids

  • Understand biological membranes, transport, and cell signaling

Module 2: Cell Theory & Cell Structure

  • Explore the pioneers of microscopy and the development of cell theory

  • Learn the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

  • Examine organelles and their functions

Module 3: Principles of Bioinformatics

  • Discover the interdisciplinary field combining biology, mathematics, and computer science

  • Insights into genome mapping and its role in modern medicine

Module 4: Biological Research & Society

  • Improve scientific writing and presentation skills

  • Debate how advances in research shape human society

***

Workshops

💡 Academic Skills Workshops prepare students for university-level study:

  • Productivity Tips

  • 21st Century Technology Skills

  • Critical academic abilities like interview prep, essay writing, and public speaking

***

Guest Speakers

👮 Suzanne Williams QPM – Former senior detective and international hostage negotiator, with experience in high-profile global crises.

🏃 Jody Bragger – Ex-military officer and CEO of Midnight Runners, founder of the Mogadishu Marathon.

***

Activities & Excursions

⚽ A packed social calendar outside class, including:

  • Punting on the River Cam

  • Zorb football

  • Talent shows, quiz nights, and murder mystery evening

🌆 Excursions include:

  • A day trip to Oxford and its colleges

  • An optional London excursion for sightseeing and shopping (alternative: Oxford afternoon tea)

***

Food & Formal Dinners

🍽️ Breakfast and dinner provided daily in historic Oxford dining halls.

✨ Students experience Formal Hall twice during their stay – dressing up to dine by candlelight in a traditional Oxford college hall.

***

Accommodation

🏰 Stay in central Oxford colleges, steeped in history and academic tradition.

  • Individual bedrooms (shared bathrooms or limited ensuite for additional needs)

  • Male and female accommodations separated

  • Wi-Fi throughout

  • Buildings designed for study, many over 500 years old (no air conditioning)

***

Key Facts

✅ 13 nights accommodation in an Oxford University college

✅ 30 hours of academic sessions with Oxbridge tutors

✅ Carefully designed course materials

✅ Mentor support & family photograph

✅ 2 excursions included (Oxford + London)

✅ Summer school insurance

✅ Certificate & detailed tutor evaluation

💷 Pocket Money Advice: ~£80 per week (for lunches & souvenirs).

🚐 Transfers: Shared transfer service from London Heathrow (Terminal 3)

  • Arrival: 11:00, 14:00, 17:00 (Sunday)

  • Departure: 07:00, 12:00 (final Saturday)

  • £150 each way

Activities

  • Outside of lessons, enjoy a busy and diverse social program including punting on the River Cam, zorb football, games night, movie night, quiz night, talent show and a murder mystery night at the college.
  • All activities and excursions are led by our team of friendly mentors, dedicated to maximizing your enjoyment.

Accommodations

  • College allocation based on dates and subject choice, assigned a few weeks before arrival.

  • All colleges are central, historical, with unique culture and character.

  • Accommodations designed for study, not luxury; many buildings over 500 years old, no air conditioning.

  • Accommodation requests for friends/siblings considered where possible.

  • Separate male and female accommodations in each college; wi-fi available throughout.

  • Single occupancy rooms with shared bathrooms (one per four participants); some ensuite facilities available, prioritized for additional needs.

  • Mixed-gender corridors for ensuite facilities; gender-separated corridors for shared bathrooms.

  • Welcome Pack includes possible college details for program dates.

  • Rooms secured with locks, housekeeping access for maintenance.

  • Breakfast and dinner included on campus

  • Host venues accommodate all dietary requirements, special attention to religious observances and medical needs (Please let us know if you need to follow any particular religious observances or have any medical requirements that we need to know about.)

  • As a student, you will experience formal dinner three times during your stay: once per week in Oxford and at an Cambridge University college on the excursion day, making formal hall a memorable occasion, so remember to bring some smart clothes!

Excursions

  • Two excursions offered: a day trip to visit Oxford and its colleges, and an optional day out in London to see famous landmarks and enjoy shopping.
  • If you opt out of the London trip, you're invited to afternoon tea in Oxford.

Transportation

  • Arrival Time: Participants should arrive between 2 pm and 5 pm on the first Sunday of the program, with registration and accommodation showings upon arrival (accommodation ready by 3 pm).

  • London Heathrow Airport Transfers: Shared airport transfer service available from Heathrow Terminal 3 directly to Cambridge/Oxford colleges. Pastoral team to meet participants at any Heathrow terminal and escort to Terminal 3.

  • Transfer departures at 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00 on arrival Sunday; return transfers to London Heathrow Airport depart at 07:00 and 12:00 on the final Saturday.

  • Transfer Fee: Available for booking post-enrollment at £150 each way.

  • Detailed information is provided closer to the program date, including contact numbers.

  • Alternative Arrivals: For those arriving at different airports or by other means, details are in the Welcome Pack sent after enrolment confirmation.

Lesson Plan

  • 40 hours of academic sessions from Oxford University and Cambridge University tutors
  • Carefully designed study and lecture materials
  • Mentor program and access to support material

Academic Skills Workshops:

  • Unlock participants’ potential, giving them the tools to prepare for the next steps of their education and future goals.
  • Focus on enhancing study skills
  • Support for university-level learning
  • Diverse and enriching range of topics – past examples have ranged from ‘Productivity tips’ to ’21st Century Technology Skills’.
  • Unique learning experience outside traditional schools

Sample Modules:

Module 1: Macromolecules Of Life

  • Examine key biological macromolecules and their roles in living systems
  • Learn about biological membranes, membrane transport, cell signaling, cell-cell recognition
  • Introduction to proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids

Module 2: Cell Theory And Cell Structure

  • Explore early microscopy pioneers and the development of Cell Theory
  • Review differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
  • Examine roles and functions of cell organelles in eukaryotic cells

Module 3: Principles Of Bioinformatics

  • Understand the significance of bioinformatics in life sciences
  • Interdisciplinary approach of biology, mathematics, computer science, statistics
  • Insights into human genome mapping and implications for molecular medicine

Module 4: How Will Advances In Biological Research Impact Upon Society?

  • Improve scientific writing skills through presentations or essays
  • Discuss the impact of biological research on society

Sample timetable Academic insights 2024

Sample Tutors

Dr. Saroj Velamakanni:

  • Dr. Saroj Velamakanni is a Cambridge educated scientist, researcher and entrepreneur.

Guest Speakers from Previous Summers:

  • Abi Oyepitan - Former Olympian: A two-time Olympian and Commonwealth Gold and Silver winning track and field athlete.

  • Dr Lynda Shaw - Neuroscientist & entrepreneur: A journey in personal development - how to create your own set of tools to fast track success

  • Dr Nigel Warburton - Philosopher, author & journalist: How do great people find answers to deep and meaningful questions?​​

Extras

  • Transfer Fee: £150 each way.

  • Pocket Money Advice: Money we recommend that participants bring £80 per week to cover any souvenirs that they may wish to purchase. Various banks and ATMs are available throughout Cambridge, and Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.

Security

  • This program is accredited by British Accreditation Council (BAC)

  • Meets global standards for academic provision and student welfare

  • Top priority for participant safety

  • Staff undergo enhanced background checks and safeguarding training

  • Participants assigned to a “Mentor Family” of 10 students

  • Mentors offer support, advice, and share their experiences

  • School management and supervision is managed by senior, experienced College Managers in Cambridge, Oxford, London, and Sydney

  • College Managers trained to Level 3 Safeguarding standards

  • Resident summer team and college personnel supervise sites 24/7

  • Encourage student independence within safe boundaries

  • Team supervision ensures safe and rewarding experience

Requirements

  • This program is designed for students with at least an upper-intermediate level of English (B2). If you are unsure if you meet this requirement, please contact with our advisor.

Video

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